Effervescent liquid dispenser

ABSTRACT

An effervescent liquid dispenser includes a dispenser body adapted for connection to a container containing pressurized effervescent liquid to be dispensed from the container, the dispenser including a fluid shaft in a passageway and a valve member, the fluid shaft being arranged along a length of the passageway, the fluid shaft and valve member being adapted to release the pressurized effervescent liquid upon urging of the valve member into an open position. A regulator connected to the dispenser body and in fluid communication with the container and the pressurized effervescent liquid, the regulator and the dispenser body being configured as a unitary assembly permitting selective passage of the pressurized effervescent liquid. A tube connected to the dispenser body and extending into the container, a spout connected to the dispenser body for discharging pressurized effervescent liquid, and the liquid dispenser is permanently affixed to the container and the container is non-refillable.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to the field of liquid dispensers, andin particular, to effervescent liquid dispensers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Dispensers for dispensing effervescent liquids subject a liquid to apressurized gas, such as carbon dioxide, a portion of which pressurizedgas dissolves in the liquid. Upon dispensing the liquid from thedispenser into an environment having a lower pressure and/or a lowertemperature, the pressurized gas begins escaping from the liquid in theform of bubbles. This is known as effervescence. Such dispenserstypically have a container containing liquid, the container receivingpressurized gas from a pressurized gas source. The pressurized gassource is then isolated from the container. The pressurized gas not onlybrings about effervescence, but provides the impetus for dispensing theliquid from the container.

This conventional dispenser arrangement has several shortcomings. Forexample, as the liquid is dispensed, the gas pressure in the containeris reduced, and the degree of effervescence may likewise be reduced.Furthermore, in an effort to maintain a high degree of effervescence forthe liquid irrespective of the amount of liquid remaining in thecontainer, additional pressurized gas may need to be initiallyintroduced into the container. Such additional pressurized gas increasesthe gas pressure inside the container, which raises safety concerns.

There are several federal regulations which relate to packaging in theliquor industry. For example, current federal regulation (27 C.F.R. §5.46 (2017)) provides, absent special exceptions, that for liquorbottles having a capacity of 200 mL or more, the headspace cannot exceed8 percent of the total capacity of the bottle after closure. In orderfor conventional dispenser arrangements to comply with such regulations(e.g., to dispense the contents of a container with 8 percent or lessheadspace), would require a headspace pressure of over 300 psi. Glasscontainers capable of withstanding such a pressure are impractical andunsafe.

Examples of conventional dispensing arrangements are disclosed in U.S.Pat. Nos. 90,215; 2,098,169; 6,415,963; 6,745,922; 8,177,103; 8,191,740;8,302,822; 9,352,949; U.S. Pub Nos 2016/0251210 and 2016/0251212; EP2129596; WO 00/35774 and WO 00/35803. The disclosure of the foregoingpatents and patent applications is hereby incorporated by reference.

There is a need in the art for effervescent liquid dispensers that donot suffer from these shortcomings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The instant invention solves problems associated with conventionaldispensing arrangements by providing a safe (e.g., having a reduced riskof rupture or container failure), carbonated liquid dispensing devicethat employs a disposable container and a permanently affixed closurethat maintains carbonation and allows for dispensing of the contentswithout decreased carbonation. This in turn allows for a consumerproduct that mimics the behavior of the conventional seltzer siphon suchas the one referenced in U.S. 90,215 with added safety and dispensingconsistency. Conventional seltzer siphons were partially filled leavingan excess of 25% of the entire volume of the container with a head spacecontaining a pressurized gas between 60 and 120 psi. Such pressures areundesirable when using glass containers or other containers that failurecatastrophically, and are avoided by the instant invention. In addition,as the contents of the conventional seltzer siphon were dispensed, thepressure in the head space decreases, thus gas dissolved in the fluid isreleased thereby decreasing overall effervescence. Another variation onthe conventional seltzer siphon disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No.2,098,169A, which requires the user to acquire and insert a pressurizedcartridge and, thereafter, replace a spent cartridge. Such replaceablepressurized cartridges are not required by the instant invention.

One embodiment of the instant invention relates to a disposable (i.e.,not refillable or reusable) alcoholic beverage packaging that canmaintain carbonation and self-dispense a carbonated beverage while beingcompliant with the headspace requirements of 27 C.F.R. § 5.46 (2017)(https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2017-title27-vol1/pdf/CFR-2017-title27-vol1-part5.pdf),which provides, absent special exceptions, that for liquor bottleshaving a capacity of 200 mL or more, the headspace cannot exceed 8percent of the total capacity of the bottle after closure. In addition,when charged with a division 2.2 gas, such as carbon dioxide (UN 1013),which is a non-flammable, nonpoisonous compressed gas, the instantinvention's design meets the limited quantities exemption set forth in49 C.F.R. § 173.306 (2017)(https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2017-title49-vol2/pdf/CFR-2017-title49-vol2-part173.pdf),pursuant to 49 C.F.R. § 173.306(a)(1) & (i) (i.e., not more than 4 fluidounces capacity for carbon dioxide), which in turn exempts the inventionfrom various shipping requirements under United States law. This aspectof the design is consistent with the limited quantities exemptionrecognized internationally pursuant to § 1.1.1.5 and Chapter 3.4 of theUnited Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods—ModelRegulations (Rev. 20, 2017)(https://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev20/20files_e.html)(carbon dioxide quantity limit for inner packaging or article of 120mL). All of the above regulations are incorporated by reference.

One embodiment of the present invention is directed to an effervescentliquid dispenser including pressurized gas from a pressurized gassource. A container is provided containing liquid to be dispensedreceiving pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source, becoming apressurized liquid, the pressurized liquid becoming an effervescentliquid upon being dispensed from the container. A regulator is providedin selective fluid communication with the container and the pressurizedgas source. In response to a differential pressure applied to theregulator being less than a first threshold value between a containerpressure and an environmental pressure of an environment surrounding thedispenser, pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source is permittedto flow into the regulator chamber and the container until the firstthreshold value is achieved. In response to the differential pressureapplied to the regulator being greater than the first threshold valuebetween the container pressure and the environmental pressure,pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source is prevented fromflowing into the regulator chamber and the container.

One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a containerincluding an effervescent liquid and an effervescent liquid dispenserincluding pressurized gas from a pressurized gas source. A regulator isprovided in selective fluid communication with the container and thepressurized gas source. In response to a differential pressure appliedto the regulator being less than a first threshold value between acontainer pressure and an environmental pressure of an environmentsurrounding the dispenser, pressurized gas from the pressurized gassource is permitted to flow into the regulator chamber and the containeruntil the first threshold value is achieved. In response to thedifferential pressure applied to the regulator being greater than thefirst threshold value between the container pressure and theenvironmental pressure, pressurized gas from the pressurized gas sourceis prevented from flowing into the regulator chamber and the container.

One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a containerincluding an effervescent liquid and an effervescent liquid dispenserincluding pressurized gas from a pressurized gas source. A regulator isprovided in selective fluid communication with the container and thepressurized gas source. In response to a differential pressure appliedto the regulator being less than a first threshold value between acontainer pressure and an environmental pressure of an environmentsurrounding the dispenser, pressurized gas from the pressurized gassource is permitted to flow into the regulator chamber and the containeruntil the first threshold value is achieved. In response to thedifferential pressure applied to the regulator being greater than thefirst threshold value between the container pressure and theenvironmental pressure, pressurized gas from the pressurized gas sourceis prevented from flowing into the regulator chamber and the container,and in which the liquid dispenser is permanently affixed to thecontainer and the container is non-refillable.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments in which the pressurized gas source is located within thecontainer.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments in which the pressurized gas source is located exterior tothe container.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments in which the effervescent liquid dispenser is in fluidconnection with a flexible tube.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments in which the effervescent liquid includes a carbonatedalcoholic beverage.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments in which the container complies with 27 C.F.R. 5.46 (2017).

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments in which the container conforms with 49 C.F.R. 173.306(2017).

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments in which the liquid dispenser is permanently affixed bycompression fit.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments in which the liquid dispenser is permanently affixed by acrimp fit.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments in which the pressurized gas source is connected to theregulator.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiment in which the pressure within the container ranges from about2 to about 10 psi.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments in which a shaft extends through the dispenser and movementof the shaft permits pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source toflow which forces an effervescent liquid into a tube that in turnpermits the effervescent liquid to pass through the dispenser and bedispensed from the container.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments further including a tap that is located externally to thedispenser and container and in which movement of the shaft is caused byrotational movement of a tap.

One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the foregoingembodiments further including a spout connected to the dispenser and inwhich the effervescent liquid is dispensed from the container from thespout.

One embodiment of the invention is directed to an effervescent liquiddispenser including a dispenser body, the dispenser is adapted forconnection to a container containing pressurized effervescent liquid tobe dispensed from the container, the dispenser including a fluid shaftin a passageway and a valve member, the fluid shaft being arranged alonga length of the passageway, the fluid shaft and valve member beingadapted to release the pressurized effervescent liquid upon urging ofthe valve member into an open position. The effervescent liquiddispenser further includes a regulator connected to the dispenser bodyand in fluid communication with the container and the pressurizedeffervescent liquid, the regulator and the dispenser body beingconfigured as a unitary assembly that permits selective passage of thepressurized effervescent liquid. The effervescent liquid dispenserfurther includes a tube connected to the dispenser body and extendinginto the container, and a spout connected to the dispenser body fordischarging the pressurized effervescent liquid. In response to adifferential pressure applied to the regulator being less than a firstthreshold value between a container pressure and an environmentalpressure of an environment surrounding the dispenser, pressurizedeffervescent is permitted to flow into the regulator chamber and thecontainer until the first threshold value is achieved. In response tothe differential pressure applied to the regulator being greater thanthe first threshold value between the container pressure and theenvironmental pressure, pressurized effervescent liquid is preventedfrom flowing into the regulator chamber and the container. The liquiddispenser is permanently affixed to the container and the container isnon-refillable.

The aspects and embodiments of the invention can be used alone or incombinations with each other.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparentfrom the following more detailed description of the preferredembodiment, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings whichillustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an upper front perspective view of an exemplary dispenser.

FIG. 2 is a rotated front perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a cross-section of the dispenser FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged, partial cross-section of the dispenser of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a further enlarged, partial cross-section of the dispenser ofFIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of an exemplary dispenser.

FIG. 7 is a cross-section taken along line 7-7 of the dispenser of FIG.6.

FIG. 8 is a further enlarged, partial cross-section taken from region 8of the dispenser of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a cross-section taken along line 7-7 of the dispenser of FIG.6.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged view taken from region 10 of the dispenser ofFIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged, partial cross-section taken along line 7-7 ofthe dispenser of FIG. 6.

FIG. 12 is an enlarged, partial view taken from region 12 of thedispenser of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged, partial cross-section taken along line 7-7 ofthe dispenser of FIG. 6.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged, partial view taken from region 13 of thedispenser of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a side elevation of one embodiment of an exemplary dispenser.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged, partial view taken from region 16 of thedispenser of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a cross-section of a dispenser having an internally locatedhigh pressure source and crimped dispenser attachment.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged partial cross-section of the dispenser of FIG.17.

FIG. 19 is a cross-section of a dispenser having an internally locatedhigh pressure source and crimped dispenser attachment.

FIG. 20 is an enlarged partial cross-section of one embodiment of thedispenser of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a further enlarged partial cross-section of the dispenser ofFIG. 19.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

This invention provides an apparatus or a means, such as a dispenser,for dispensing a liquid as well as maintaining a uniform level ofeffervescence using a pressurized gas. This new invention is novel inthat it provides a means for fully dispensing an effervescent fluid froma container without requiring high pressurization of the containeritself. Unlike existing dispensers, the inventive dispenser is suitablefor scale consumer products because it can be packaged in small formfactors, manufactured in large quantities, and made at low costs. Thedevice includes a vessel or high-pressure gas source for storinghigh-pressure gas, a regulator for maintaining low pressure inside thecontainer, and a relief valve to ensure container pressure remains belowa preselected threshold. The high-pressure gas source can be locatedinternally or externally of the container. As just one example, existingalcoholic beverage packaging could be made safer by this inventionwithout exceeding the headspace limitation imposed by law (e.g., theinventive dispenser is self-dispensing while employing a relatively lowpressure within the container). Utilizing the novel dispenser of thepresent invention ensures the containers comply with current federalregulations, such as (49 C.F.R. § 173.306 (2017)) and (27 C.F.R. § 5.46(2017)), while reducing the pressure level of pressurized gas in thecontainer, while providing a container having improved safety incomparison to conventional dispensers. In particular, the instantinvention permits substantially completely dispensing a carbonatedbeverage wherein the pressure within the container is less than 60 psi,for example, typically about 2 to about 20 psi, about 2 to about 10 psiand normally about 5 to about 6 psi. In another aspect of the invention,the pressure within the container ranges from about zero to about 300psi.

The invention also provides a container having an effervescent fluidtherein and having the dispenser permanently affixed to the container(e.g., an effervescent fluid is introduced into the container and sealedtherein until it is desired to dispense the effervescent fluid from thecontainer). The invention further provides a method for dispensing theentire contents of an effervescent fluid from a container undergenerally uniform pressure.

For purposes herein, “effervescent fluid” or “effervescent liquid” inaccordance with the instant invention includes a fluid that becomeseffervescent by being released from the inventive dispenser as well as afluid that is carbonated prior to introduction into the dispenser.Examples of such fluids include carbonated or effervescent ales, colas,fruit drinks, teas, waters, sodas, soft drinks, among other beverages aswell as alcoholic beverages such as gin, liqueurs, vodka, rum,champagne, sparkling wine, among other alcoholic beverages. While anysuitable degree of effervescence or carbonation can be employed, thefluid can comprise about 1 to about 10 volumes, about 2 to about 8 andnormally about 2 to 3 volumes of gas.

The instant invention further provides for a method for introducing aneffervescent liquid into the container.

The instant invention further provides a method for dispensing aneffervescent fluid from the container.

For purposes herein, headspace, such as headspace 53 shown in FIG. 3, isdefined as the distance from the top of the container to the top of aproduct, which in this case is to the top of pressurized liquid 52.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show one embodiment of an exemplary dispenser 10 includinga container 12 having a collar 58 (FIG. 5) that is secured to adispenser assembly 14. Dispenser assembly 14 includes a high-pressurevessel or high-pressure source 18 that provides pressurized gas, such ascarbon dioxide, nitrogen, among others, to a liquid contained incontainer 12, which liquid is or becomes a pressurized liquid 52 (FIG.3). A portion of the pressurized gas can dissolve in pressurized liquid52 such that upon the pressurized liquid 52 being discharged from aspout 16 into an ambient environment 19 (FIG. 5) surrounding thedispenser, pressurized liquid 52 becomes effervescent liquid 56. When apreviously carbonated effervescent fluid is to be dispensed, thepressurized gas maintains a pressure upon the effervescent fluid therebymaintaining the effervescence and permitting the effervescent fluid tobe dispensed at a generally uniform pressure.

It is to be understood that any suitable high-pressure gas that promotesor maintains effervescence may be used.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the dispenser assembly 14 includes adispensing mechanism 24 including a dispenser body 22. An enlargedportion 36 of a straw or tube 34 is secured to dispenser body 22. AnO-ring 40 promotes a fluid tight seal between enlarged portion 36 anddispenser body 22. Tube 34 extends to an opposed end 38 (FIG. 3)positioned near the bottom of container 12 for selectively forciblydirecting pressurized liquid 52 through tube 34, then through dispenserbody 22 before being discharged from spout 16. Dispenser assembly 14 ispermanently affixed to container 12 by any suitable means such aspress-fit, crimp, rolled flange, retaining rings and snaps, among otherpermanent attachment means and methods (for example, as described ingreater detail in connection with FIGS. 17-21). In particular, since thedispenser assembly 14 is permanently affixed to container 12, container12 is intended to be discarded, recycled or otherwise disposed of afterdispensing the effervescent liquid is complete.

As further shown in FIG. 5, a lever or tap 20 rotates in a rotationalmovement 47 about a pivot 46 formed in dispenser body 22. Tap 20 abuts ahead 28 of a fluid shaft 26, which head 28 is positioned in a passageway30 of dispenser body 22. Head 28 extends to a fluid shaft 26. Fluidshaft 26 passes through a fluid tight opening formed in a fluid shaftseal 50 and extends through a passageway 32 formed in dispenser body 22,terminating in a plug or valve member 44 positioned in enlarged portion36 of tube 34. Valve member 44 includes an O-ring 42 for providing afluid tight seal between valve member 44 and dispenser body 22 whenvalve member 44 is in a closed position such as shown in FIG. 5.

As further shown in FIG. 5, a spring 48 is positioned between fluidshaft seal 50 and head 28 of fluid shaft 26. By virtue of spring 48,head 28 biases and urges tap 20 in rotational movement 47 away fromhigh-pressure source 18, and urging valve member 44 into its closedposition in contact with dispenser body 22.

As shown in FIG. 5, in order to dispense pressurized fluid 52 (FIG. 3),a sufficient force is applied to tap 20 in rotational movement 47 towardhigh-pressure source 18 to overcome the opposing force generated byspring 48. When the opposing force generated by spring 48 is overcome,fluid shaft 26 is urged toward enlarged portion 36 of tube 34, similarlyurging valve member 44 to an open position. With valve member 44 in anopen position, pressurized liquid 52 (FIG. 3) which is pressurized to ahigher pressure than the environmental or ambient environment 19 isurged into pressurized liquid flow 54 through tube 34, then throughenlarged portion 36, then through passageway 32 and finally throughpassageway 17, whereupon the pressurized liquid is discharged intoambient environment 19. Upon being discharged into ambient environment19, pressurized liquid 52 becomes effervescent liquid 56, due toeffervescence occurring as a result of the reduction of pressure levelin the ambient environment compared to the pressure level in container12. In the event the pressurized liquid 52 comprises a previouslycarbonated effervescent liquid, then the effervescent liquid 56 has adegree of carbonation substantially the same as when the carbonatedliquid was introduced into container 12.

As shown in FIGS. 6-10, the dispenser includes a regulator 60 and anoptional pressure relief valve 62 incorporated into dispenser assembly14. FIG. 7 is a cross-section of the dispenser taken along line 7-7 ofFIG. 6, and FIG. 8 is a further enlarged, partial cross-section takenfrom region 8 of the dispenser of FIG. 7. As further shown in FIG. 8,regulator 60 includes a regulator frame or regulator body or body 64that is inserted inside of a passageway 66 of dispenser body 22. Adiaphragm 82 is positioned to one side of regulator body 64 opposite achamber 98 formed in dispenser body 22 in fluid communication withhigh-pressure source 18. In other words, chamber 98 and high-pressuresource 18, but not diaphragm 82 and high-pressure source 18, are incontinuous fluid communication. Regulator body 64 and diaphragm 82 aresecured between dispenser body 22 and a cap 84. Regulator body 64includes an internal channel, such as an annular recess 70 in fluidcommunication with diaphragm 82 and a circumferential groove 72 in fluidcommunication with passageway 66. Regulator body 64 further includes apassageway 74 formed therethrough in selective fluid communication withchamber 98, annular recess 70, and diaphragm 82. Additionally, by virtueof opening 94 formed in circumferential groove 72 of regulator body 64and an opening 96 formed in dispenser body 22 being aligned with eachother, cumulatively forming a passageway 100, annular recess 70 is influid communication with container 12. Such alignment need not be exactbut sufficient to permit the fluid communication.

As further shown in FIG. 8, diaphragm 82 includes a centrally positioneddiaphragm member 86. One end of a spring 88 abuts a counterbore 90formed in cap 84. The other end of spring 88 contacts and biasesdiaphragm member 86 toward regulator body 64. Diaphragm member 86 issecured to one end of a plunger 76 that extends through passageway 74 ofregulator body 64, terminating at a head 78 which is in fluidcommunication with chamber 98. In other words, head 78 and chamber 98are in continuous fluid communication, and likewise, chamber 98 andhigh-pressure source 18 are in continuous fluid communication. O-ring 80associated with head 78 establishes a fluid tight seal with regulatorbody 64 when the regulator is in a closed position 140 (FIG. 14).

As shown in FIGS. 6, 9 and 10, in which FIG. 9 is a cross-section of thedispenser taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6, and FIG. 10 is a furtherenlarged, partial cross-section taken from region 10 of the dispenser ofFIG. 9, the operation of regulator 60 is now discussed. As further shownFIG. 10, diaphragm 82 is subjected to opposed forces 124, 126. Force 124corresponds to ambient pressure applied to the surface of diaphragm 82facing cap 84 by virtue of opening 92, as well as an additional forceapplied to diaphragm member 86 by spring 88 (e.g., an additional forceto maintain or retain a defined position). Force 126 corresponds to thepressure level in container 12. In response to force 124 being greaterthan force 126, diaphragm member 86 of diaphragm 82 is urged to movetoward chamber 98 which similarly urges head 78 of plunger 76 away fromregulator body 64, resulting in the regulator being in an open position138.

As further shown in FIG. 10, while the regulator is in an open position138, a high-pressure gas flow path 120 is established, in whichhigh-pressure gas in chamber 98 from high-pressure source 18 (FIG. 1)sequentially flows between head 78 of plunger 76 and regulator body 64,then through passageway 74, then through annular recess 70 and finallythrough passageway 100 into container 12, increasing the pressure levelin container 12, and likewise, increases force 126 applied to diaphragm82. Once force 126 exceeds force 124, diaphragm member 86 of diaphragm82 is urged to move away from chamber 98, similarly moving head 78 ofplunger 76 toward and into a fluid tight contact with regulator body 64,resulting in the regulator being in a closed position 140 (FIG. 14). Asa result, the regulator prevents over-pressurization of the containerwhile maintaining the pressure in the container at a generally constantlevel, resulting in a uniform level of effervescence.

As shown in FIGS. 6-10, optional pressure relief valve 62 isincorporated into dispenser assembly 14. FIG. 7 is a cross-section ofthe dispenser taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6, and FIG. 8 is a furtherenlarged, partial cross-section taken from region 8 of the dispenser ofFIG. 7. As further shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, pressure relief valve 62includes a relief valve frame or relief valve body or valve body 102that is inserted inside of a passageway 103 of dispenser body 22. Valvebody 102 is secured between dispenser body 22 and a cap 104. An O-ring106 provides a fluid tight seal between dispenser body 22 and valve body102. Cap 104 includes a counterbore 114 and an opening 118 in fluidcommunication with ambient environment 19. Valve body 102 includes acounterbore 108 having an opening 110 facing dispenser body 22.

As further shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, a valve member 112 is positionedinside of counterbore 108 between opening 110 on one side of valvemember 112 and a spring 116 on the other side of the valve member.Spring 116 is positioned between valve member 112 and counterbore 114.When pressure relief valve 62 is in a closed position 144, Valve member112 abuts and is in fluid tight contact with opening 110. A counterbore146 having a peripheral sidewall 148 is in fluid communication withopening 110. Peripheral sidewall 148 has an opening 132 formedtherethrough that is aligned with an opening 134 formed in dispenserbody 22. Cumulatively, openings 132, 134, form a passageway 136 that isin communication with container 12.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8-14, in which FIGS. 11 and 13 arecross-sections of the dispenser taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6, FIG. 12is a further enlarged, partial cross-section taken from region 12 of thedispenser of FIG. 11, and FIG. 14 is a further enlarged, partialcross-section taken from region 12 of the dispenser of FIG. 13, theoperation of pressure relief valve 62 is now discussed. Acontainer-facing side 150 of the valve member 112 faces opening 110 ofvalve body 102, and an environment-facing side 152 of valve member 112faces cap 104 which is in fluid communication with ambient environment19 via opening 118. Container-facing side 150, which is a fluidcommunication with container 12 via passageway 136 and opening 110 issubjected to a force 128. Force 128 is a product of the surface area ofopening 110 multiplied by the pressure level of container 12.Environment-facing side 152 is subjected to a force 130, which is thesum of two force components: the first force component is the product ofthe surface area of environment-facing side 152 multiplied by thepressure of ambient environment 19; the second force component is theforce applied by spring 116.

When force 128 is less than force 130, valve member 112 is urged into afluid tight contact with opening 110, defining a closed position 144(FIG. 8) of pressure relief valve 62. However, when force 128 is greaterthan force 130, valve member 112 is urged away from opening 110,defining an open position 142 (FIG. 14) of pressure relief valve 62. Inopen position 142, a vented pressurized gas flow path 122 isestablished, in which pressurized gas from container 12 flows throughpassageway 136, through opening 110, around valve member 112 beforebeing discharged from the pressure relief valve via opening 118 into theambient environment. As a result, the pressure relief valve preventsover-pressurization of the container, in the event the regulator doesnot function properly.

FIGS. 15 and 16 show further embodiments of the invention. FIG. 16 showsan enlarged area 16 of FIG. 15. Referring now to FIG. 16, FIG. 16 showsone embodiment of the invention wherein dispenser body 22 is compressionor snap-fit onto container 12. In this embodiment, container 12 includesa protuberance 154 and an outwardly extending ridge 160. Dispenser body22 includes a tab 156 wherein upon application of a downward force, tab156 flexes outwardly when traveling past ridge 160 and then tab 156returns to its original shape and engages ridge 160 thereby creating acompression or snap fit connection between dispenser body 22 andcontainer 12. An O-ring 158 or other suitable fluid tight means isposition between the opening of container 12 and dispenser body 22.

Referring now to FIG. 15, FIG. 15 shows another embodiment of theinvention wherein straw or siphon tube 34 is flexible. In thisembodiment of the invention, tube 34 includes bellows 162 that allowsthe tube 34 to flex and move within container 12. Tube 34 furtherincludes a weight 164 that causes the tube 34 to flex in response tomovement of the container 12. In particular, a flexible tube 34 canenhance the entire quantity of pressurized fluid 52 being dispensed fromthe container 12.

One aspect of the invention relates to a method to deactivate theregulator such that the container can be pre-charged to any pressurethrough the high pressure vessel and the pressure released ordeactivated to a predetermined lower pressure. One method for reducingpressure within the container comprises pushing the regulator “open”using a small shaft through a hole in the regulator cap. The containercould then be precharged by adding gas through the high pressure vesseluntil the desired container precharge pressure is reached. For example,by pushing member 86 (FIG. 10) with a “pin” through opening 92, air canflow freely between container 12 and high-pressure source or pressurevessel 18. The regulator 60 is forced “open”. This enables one to fillthe pressure vessel with compressed gas after the inventive dispenserhas been assembled. If desired, one can pressurize the bottle orcontainer to a different pressure than the pressure vessel. With pinengaged (regulator forced “open”) gas can be added to pressure vessel 18and therefore container 12. The flow of pressurized gas is maintaineduntil the container reaches the desired pressure (e.g., less than 60 psiand typically less than 50 psi). The pin is then retracted (regulatorclosed) and the pressure vessel can be filled until a desired pressure(e.g., 300 psi) is reached. As a result, the container be maintained ata pressure that is less than the pressure of the pressure vessel (e.g.,the container has a pressure of 50 psi and the pressure vessel is at 300psi).

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method that allows one tofill the pressure vessel and bottle or container to the same pressure.With pin engaged (regulator forced “open”) gas is added through thenozzle 16 which increases the pressure in the container 12 and thepressure vessel 18. The container and pressure vessel can be pre-chargedto any desired pressure. This method is useful for applications where aninitial fluid pressurization is required until the first dispense, atwhich point the gas flow would be regulated.

As shown in FIGS. 17-21 and in one embodiment of the invention, the highpressure source is located within container 12. A high pressure source170 is located within container 12 and in fluid connection with apressure regulator having regulator body 64. The pressure regulatorfunctions in the manner described above in connection with FIGS. 6-10.O-rings or other suitable arrangement 186 provides a fluid seal betweenhigh pressure gas source 170 and the regulator body. In particular, whentap 20 is urged into rotational movement, fluid shaft 168 is displacedthereby allowing a pressure to be applied by pressure source 170 throughthe regulator body which causes fluid 52 to pass through tube or straw34 and in turn be dispensed via passageway 17.

Referring now to FIG. 18, FIG. 18 shows one embodiment of the inventionwherein a dispenser body 166 is permanently affixed to container 12 byusing a crimp system 178. Container 12 includes an outwardly extendingprotuberance 180 that includes a face that engages a matching face onflange 182 of dispenser body 166. Container 12 further includes acompression fit cap or clevis 174 that is affixed to regulator body 64wherein the regulator body 64 sealingly engages the container 12 byO-rings or other suitable arrangement 184. The interior circumference ofdispenser body 166 further defines a groove 176 that engages the distalportion of cap 174. In particular, when a downward force is applied ontodispenser body 166, cap 174 is compressed inwardly until the distalportion of cap 174 expands outwardly (“snaps”) and engages groove 176thereby permanently affixing dispenser body 166 onto container 12. Ifdesired, exterior circumferential portions of matching faces ofprotrusion 180 and flange 182 can be crimped by using crimp system 178.The crimp system can comprise a ring, foil or other flexible system thatis shaped in order to be permanently affixed to the matching faces ofprotrusion 180 of dispenser body 166 and flange 182 of container 12.

Referring now to FIG. 20, FIG. 20 shows an embodiment of a dispenser ofFIG. 19 wherein a plug 186 is located in regulator body 64. Plug 186 canbe used for introducing or removing a gas from pressure source 170.

Referring now to FIG. 21, FIG. 21 shows an embodiment of a dispenser ofFIG. 19 that further includes a pressure relief value 62 that employsvalve member 112 and operates in the manner described above inconnection with FIG. 8.

While the invention has been described with reference to a preferredembodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatvarious changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted forelements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. Inaddition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situationor material to the teachings of the invention without departing from theessential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the inventionnot be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best modecontemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the inventionwill include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appendedclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An effervescent liquid dispenser comprising: adispenser body; wherein the dispenser is adapted for connection to acontainer containing pressurized effervescent liquid to be dispensedfrom the container, the dispenser including a fluid shaft in apassageway and a valve member, the fluid shaft being arranged along alength of the passageway, the fluid shaft and valve member being adaptedto release the pressurized effervescent liquid upon urging of the valvemember into an open position; and a regulator connected to the dispenserbody and in fluid communication with the container and the pressurizedeffervescent liquid, the regulator and the dispenser body beingconfigured as a unitary assembly that permits selective passage of thepressurized effervescent liquid; a tube connected to the dispenser bodyand extending into the container; a spout connected to the dispenserbody for discharging the pressurized effervescent liquid; wherein inresponse to a differential pressure applied to the regulator being lessthan a first threshold value between a container pressure and anenvironmental pressure of an environment surrounding the dispenser,pressurized effervescent is permitted to flow into the regulator chamberand the container until the first threshold value is achieved; whereinin response to the differential pressure applied to the regulator beinggreater than the first threshold value between the container pressureand the environmental pressure, pressurized effervescent liquid isprevented from flowing into the regulator chamber and the container;wherein the liquid dispenser is permanently affixed to the container andthe container is non-refillable.
 2. The dispenser of claim 1 furthercomprising a pressure relief valve spaced apart from the regulator, thepressure relief valve having a valve member in fluid communication withthe container on one side of the valve member and in fluid communicationwith an environment surrounding the dispenser on the other side of thevalve member; wherein in response to a first force applied to thecontainer-facing side of the valve member exceeding a second forceapplied to the environment-facing side of the valve member, the valvemember is actuated to an open position for discharging pressurizedeffervescent liquid from the container into the environment; wherein inresponse to the first force applied to the container-facing side of thevalve member being less than the second force applied to theenvironment-facing side of the valve member, the valve member isactuated to a closed position for preventing pressurized effervescentliquid discharge from the container into the environment.
 3. Thecontainer of claim 1 wherein the pressurized effervescent liquidcomprises a carbonated alcoholic beverage.
 4. The container of claim 1wherein the container complies with 27 C.F.R. 5.46 (2017).
 5. Thecontainer of claim 4 wherein the container conforms with 49 C.F.R.173.306 (2017).
 6. The container of claim 1 wherein the tube comprises aflexible tube.
 7. The container of claim 1 wherein the liquid dispenseris permanently affixed by compression fit.
 8. The container of claim 1wherein the liquid dispenser is permanently affixed by a crimp fit. 9.The container of claim 1 wherein the pressure within the containerranges from about zero to about 300 psi.
 10. The container of claim 1wherein a shaft extends through the dispenser and movement of the shaftpermits pressurized effervescent liquid to flow which forces thepressurized effervescent liquid into the tube that in turn permits thepressurized effervescent liquid to pass through the dispenser body andbe dispensed from the spout.
 11. The container of claim 1 furthercomprising a tap wherein movement of the shaft is caused by rotationalmovement of the tap.
 12. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein the regulatorand the pressurized effervescent liquid are in continuous fluidcommunication.
 13. The container of claim 1 wherein a cap havingoutwardly extending portions is affixed to the container and wherein thedispenser defines a groove and wherein the dispenser is permanentlyaffixed to the container by engaging the portions and the groove. 14.The container of claim 1 wherein the container has a capacity of greaterthan 200 ml and the headspace above the effervescent liquid is less than8 percent of the total capacity.
 15. The container of claim 1 wherein aclevis having outwardly extending portions is affixed to the containerand wherein the effervescent liquid dispenser defines a groove andwherein the dispenser is permanently affixed to the container byengaging the portions and the groove.